Iraq’s Integrity Committee to Investigate Asiacell and Zain Iraq After CMC Cuts Korek Telecom’s Internet Services

Iraq’s parliamentary Integrity Committee has announced plans to scrutinize mobile operators Asiacell and Zain Iraq, following the Communications and Media Commission’s (CMC) decision to suspend internet services for Korek Telecom. The committee has called on the Ministry of Communications and the CMC to enforce legal measures against potential manipulation, warning of escalatory actions if violations continue.

The Integrity Committee stated it is closely monitoring the financial dues and penalties owed by telecom companies, including Korek, which has an outstanding debt of over $1.3 billion to the Iraqi government. The committee has pledged to review the financial obligations of all telecom operators, including Asiacell and Zain Iraq, evaluating both their payments and the quality of services they provide.

In a statement, the Integrity Committee emphasized that it would not tolerate any attempts to manipulate regulatory decisions and vowed to hold accountable those involved in financial mismanagement. This includes former communications ministers such as Naim al-Rubaie and Arkan al-Shibani, with the committee condemning any actions that allow telecom companies to evade their financial responsibilities.

“We will not stand idly by if telecom companies manipulate regulatory decisions to escape their obligations,” the committee said. “Any attempts to obstruct the law or collude to avoid financial responsibility will be met with strong actions.”

The committee also reiterated its demand for legal enforcement, warning that any settlements must be applied equally to all telecom operators. “Failure to comply will result in escalatory measures,” the committee warned.

On Tuesday, the CMC took punitive action against Korek Telecom, cutting off its internet services immediately. The CMC directed the Ministry of Communications to implement the suspension and urged Korek to compensate affected customers in accordance with the terms of its now-expired license.

In response to the telecom dispute, Iraq’s Ministry of Communications distanced itself from the issue, stating it has no authority over mobile operators. “The mobile license contracts for Asiacell, Zain Iraq, and Korek are signed with the CMC, not the ministry,” the statement said. “The ministry has no legal or financial jurisdiction over these companies and only implements technical procedures based on official CMC decisions regarding service suspensions.”

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